Sen. Corker the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will come to order. We thank all those in attendance. In rolling out its new south asia strategy last august, the administration underscored the United States hardfought security gains in afghanistan and reiterated our commitment to helping establish a foundation for political resolution. With the recent reports of shrinking government control of territory, continued high attrition of Afghan Forces and deadly attacks in kabul, it is clear that foundation is a long way off. But we are encouraged by the new strategy. 12,300 military personnel with additional requests approaching the level of our force commander requested in 2014. Our nato a nonnato allies have also reinforced their troop commitments and support to Afghan Forces through 2020. U. S. Commander nicholson says he has what he needs to assist afghans in achieving a sustainable outcome for the region. The new conditionsbased approach provides afghans, our allies and the taliban